For many people, budget is the overarching factor in their business decisions. It’s vital that we protect our company and commodity at all costs, but when costs are high and we have very little budget, it could be very challenging, which is why it’s important to understand the most cost-effective strategies that you can implement, including the following:
Cost-Effective Security Measures
There are a number of different ways to secure your digital assets. One of the most cost-effective is to use outsourced IT companies that can provide different packages that you can scale up and down as your business changes in stature. However, for those who are looking for more cost-effective ways to look after their IT, incorporating backup systems, encryption methods, as well as showing people how to create strong passwords can protect against hacks and data breaches.
The Right Legal Resources
There are so many different ways your business can fall flat when it comes to legal problems. Ultimately, hiring a business lawyer can be a very expensive practice, which is why understanding the best legal resources online can make all the difference. Many non-profit organizations and law schools offer free legal clinics so you can understand the intricacies of potential legal problems like contracts for employees, vendors, and clients. While there are many contract templates available online, it is important to have a legal professional review important contracts. Therefore, if you can’t afford a long-term relationship with a business lawyer, paying for an initial consultation can make all the difference.
Protecting Your Intellectual Property
If you are concerned that someone is out to use your services, registering your business name, logos, and trademarks with appropriate government agencies can make all the difference. Ultimately, going through a stressful court case can take your energy from the business itself. This simple step to protect your intellectual property could be invaluable.
Educate Your Employees
One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your business is to help your employees understand what they can do. Creating simple security policies can guide your team on the best practices. A lot of the time, simple solutions are the most effective, especially when it comes to password management, data handling, and responding to incidents. If an employee does not know how to handle a phishing email, providing simple and easy-to-understand guidelines on dealing with this costs nothing and can save your business a whole heap of trouble.
Physical Security Measures
We cannot overlook the importance of the most basic physical security methods like alarms, locks, and surveillance cameras. This doesn’t just ensure you have peace of mind, but it can improve the experience for everyone involved with the business.
The art of protecting your business properly when you have very little in the way of budget is not necessarily about investing in state-of-the-art systems because a little bit of knowledge can go a long way. When we teach employees how to look after themselves as well as get those bare basics in place, you can be sure to look after your organization, your assets, and your employees.
I live in a small Georgia town that you most likely have never heard of and I LOVE it! My house is more than full as I am a single mother of four & caregiver to my aging mother and uncle. Lover of all things Outlander. Goes to the beat of her own drum woman.
Elizabeth says
It’s important to have everyone on the same page!
heather says
This is a great post for all business owners to read. Security is so important these days.